Hybrid and Electric FAQ's

What’s the difference between electric and hybrid?

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A fully electric vehicle (EV) runs from battery power alone. A hybrid or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), combines a classic combustion engine with an electric motor. Both require charging from an electrical outlet.

What is regenerative braking?

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EVs and PHEVs both use regenerative braking technology to capture the energy produced when braking, to assist in recharging the battery. However, this alone will not fully charge a battery.

What is the range on a hybrid?

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Driven in pure electric mode, the range when driving a hybrid is likely to be between 30 and 50 kilometres.

How do you charge an electric or hybrid car?

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Charging is simple and easy. Using the correct charge cable you can recharge using either a household powerpoint, a home wallbox or a public charging station.

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

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That depends on the model and the type of charge point. On average, household power points can take around 12 hours to fully charge, wallboxes around 5 hours and charge stations around 45 minutes.

Are electric cars more expensive to buy?

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The purchase price of an electric vehicle can be more expensive than a standard combustion engine vehicle, but this can often be offset in other ways such as fuel efficiency and tax advantages.

Can I stop charging even if the battery is not fully charged?

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Yes, you can interrupt the charging process. This will not cause any damage to the battery.

How will I know when my battery needs charging?

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ŠKODA’s battery management system will keep you aware of your charge capacity at all times.

How do I find my nearest charge station?

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The ŠKODA Connect App will help you find your nearest public charge point. There are currently more than 9,000 charge points across the UK and more being added all the time, there’s always one close by.

What is rapid charging?

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Rapid chargers use a higher charging current than the power available at home and therefore charge much quicker than a home socket. Rapid charging points can be found in public places like shopping centres and petrol stations.

How long does charging take via a rapid charge point?

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It will generally take 30 to 45 minutes for 80% charge using a rapid charge point.

Do I need a home wallbox to charge my electric or hybrid car?

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The simple answer is no. Charging can be done via a standard home electric point. However, it will take longer than via a higher voltage wallbox.

Are electric engines cheaper to maintain?

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Since there are fewer moving parts in an electric motor, servicing requirements are fewer than when compared to a combustion engine. There is no need for oil, filter or spark plug change, for example.

How far can I drive in an electric car?

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The range for fully electric car journeys is increasing all the time as the technology evolves. The ŠKODA VISION E anticipates a range of up to 500 kilometres. Speak to Winchester Motor Group to find out more.

Are electric cars worth it?

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Many people look at the overall investment, not just the ticket price. Electric cars are better for the environment, low on running costs and could save money in ways you’d not expected.

What happens if your electric car runs out of battery?

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All ŠKODA electric vehicles have clear range indicators which will warn you if your battery is low and will direct you to the nearest charge point.

Does the battery in an electric or hybrid car take up a lot of space?

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As a second source of power, PHEVs batteries take up space inside the car but they are usually stowed under the second row of seats to avoid reducing space. EV batteries are built into the floor of the car and as there is no combustion engine, space is not reduced at all. Overall spaciousness depends on the model. To take a look at how spacious the cars are in ŠKODA’s electric and hybrid range, book a test drive with Winchester Motor Group.